Kyivstar Retires 3G: Network Shutdown Begins

Mobile operator Kyivstar continues the phased decommissioning of its third-generation network. Starting August 18, the company will begin shutting down 3G in specific towns and districts within the Dnipropetrovsk, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Khmelnytskyi regions. The freed-up spectrum will be used to expand 4G capabilities.

The operator announced the shift to more modern technologies back in May. Now, the process is entering its next phase, which will impact subscribers in three regions of the country.

Where 3G will stop working

In the Dnipropetrovsk region, the shutdown will affect Kryvyi Rih and the Kryvyi Rih district. In the Ivano-Frankivsk region, changes will impact Horodenka, Dolyna, and Sniatyn, as well as the Verkhovyna, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Kalush districts.

In the Khmelnytskyi region, 3G will be phased out in Dunayivtsi, Krasyliv, Netishyn, Polonne, Starokostiantyniv, and Khmelnytskyi. Additionally, changes will extend to the Kamianets-Podilskyi, Khmelnytskyi, and Shepetivka districts.

Thus, this is not a complete 3G shutdown across entire regions, but a phased withdrawal of the technology in specific towns and districts.

3G spectrum repurposed for 4G growth

Kyivstar explains the decision as a need to use available frequency resources more efficiently. The bands currently used for 3G will be reallocated to LTE. This is expected to allow the operator to increase network capacity and improve mobile internet quality where 4G is already available.

The company views the abandonment of 3G as part of a long-term telecommunications infrastructure upgrade. After the transition is complete, the operator intends to continue developing LTE and eventually expand 5G network coverage.

For most subscribers, the shutdown of the older technology should not mean a loss of mobile internet: devices and SIM cards with 4G support will automatically continue working via LTE.

What to do if you have an old SIM card

Users still relying on devices or SIM cards without 4G support may experience issues. In such cases, after the 3G shutdown, mobile internet access may become unavailable, or the device will switch to older technologies where they remain active.

If a SIM card does not support 4G, Kyivstar offers a free upgrade to a USIM. Phone numbers and service terms remain unchanged. To exchange the card, subscribers should visit the nearest operator store.

The company has also published a guide for users who need to activate or check 4G support on their devices.

The phased 3G shutdown is part of a broader transition by Ukrainian operators to more modern communication standards. Freeing up spectrum allows it to be directed toward LTE development and infrastructure preparation for the future rollout of 5G.